The Tampa Bay Buccaneers knew replacing Lavonte David would be one of the biggest challenges facing the defense entering the 2026 season.
While the Buccaneers addressed the position by signing veteran Alex Anzalone in free agency, one important question remains unanswered:
Who starts next to him?
As training camp approaches, the battle appears to be shaping up between second-round rookie Josiah Trotter and third-year linebacker SirVocea Dennis.
Both players bring intriguing qualities to the table. Both have supporters within the fanbase. And both have legitimate paths to earning a starting role.
Alex Anzalone’s Role Is Already Set
The Buccaneers signed Anzalone to help stabilize the linebacker room following David’s retirement.
The veteran is expected to step into a leadership role immediately and should have little trouble securing a starting job.
That leaves one linebacker spot up for grabs.
While several players will compete for snaps, Trotter and Dennis appear to be the two most likely candidates to emerge as starters.
Why Josiah Trotter Has Momentum
The Buccaneers selected Trotter with the 46th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft for a reason.
Teams don’t typically invest premium draft capital in linebackers unless they believe those players can contribute quickly.
Trotter arrives in Tampa Bay after a productive career at Missouri, where he established himself as one of the SEC’s top defensive players. His physical style, instincts, and leadership traits made him one of the most highly regarded linebackers in the draft class.
He also fits exactly what Todd Bowles wants from a Mike linebacker.
Trotter thrives attacking downhill against the run and plays with the type of physicality that stands out on film.
If the Buccaneers believe he is ready, he could step into a starting role immediately.
Why SirVocea Dennis Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
At the same time, Dennis may have one significant advantage over Trotter.
Experience.
Unlike the rookie, Dennis already understands Bowles’ defense and has spent multiple seasons learning the system. That familiarity can be extremely valuable, especially early in the season.
The former Pittsburgh standout has flashed when given opportunities and has patiently waited for a larger role within the defense.
Now that David has retired, the path to playing time is clearer than ever.
Dennis also offers more NFL experience in coverage and understands the communication responsibilities that come with playing linebacker in Tampa Bay’s defense.
That knowledge could help him gain an early edge.
What Will Decide the Competition?
The battle may ultimately come down to one simple question:
Do the Buccaneers want immediate upside or proven familiarity?
Trotter arguably offers the higher ceiling. His draft pedigree and physical skill set suggest he could become a long-term fixture in the middle of the defense.
Dennis offers continuity. He knows the scheme, understands the coaching staff’s expectations, and has already earned trust within the building.
Both arguments are valid.
That’s what makes this one of the most fascinating position battles heading into training camp.
The Prediction
If the season started tomorrow, Dennis might have a slight advantage simply because of his experience in the system.
But by the time Week 1 arrives, Trotter could be difficult to keep off the field.
The Buccaneers drafted him to become a cornerstone of the defense, not a long-term backup.
Expect Dennis to push him throughout camp and potentially earn significant playing time regardless of who wins the starting job.
Still, if Trotter develops as quickly as Tampa Bay hopes, the rookie may eventually claim the role next to Anzalone and give the Buccaneers a young linebacker pairing they can build around for years to come.
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